Taking care of your wingman is a call for action Published Nov. 28, 2006 By Master Sgt. Joe Davis 71st Mission Support Group Vance Air Force Base, -- Taking care of your wingman isn't just a catch phrase in today's Air Force -- it's a call for action. It means more than being a designated driver. It means being an active listener, advisor and helping that individual find assistance, if needed. Take an active role It's important to sit down and talk -- more importantly -- listen to your wingman on a daily basis. Don't do it to check a block, be sincere. Demonstrate to that person that you truly care. Many times as a first sergeant, a troop will come in to discuss an important issue, and after listening to them for a while, other critical issues tend to surface. If you establish a rapport with your wingman, he or she is likely to open up and let you into their world. Refer help, if needed If you discover your wingman has problems or concerns that you aren't qualified or comfortable handling, Vance AFB has several support agencies standing by to provide assistance -- the base chapel, life skills, family support center and group first sergeants. After you refer the individual to one of these agencies, don't just wash your hands of that person. Follow up to ensure he or she is getting the help needed. This demonstrates that you care about their well being and you are there to support them. Provide support 24/7 Being a good wingman doesn't stop when you leave work. Establish that professional relationship so he or she feels comfortable enough to contact you if a problem arises after duty hours. Educate the individual about possible pitfalls like public intoxication and other alcohol related incidents. Just having a designated driver isn't enough. Going out to grab a bite to eat after a night of drinking isn't the best plan of action. We have to remember we represent the Air Force 24 hours a day. The combination of a small amount of alcohol mixed with rowdy or improper behavior in public can land you or your wingman in jail for public intoxication. As a first sergeant I would be remiss in my duties if I didn't talk about driving under the influence. Team Vance has programs in place to prevent people from taking the life-threatening risk of drinking and driving. Don't hesitate to contact Vance Against Drunk Driving (VADD) or the Safe Ride Home program. Taking care of your wingman is an extension of taking care of yourself. Ensure you take care them, so they can take care of you.